Preparedness

Be prepared road sign

Kent County often faces powerful and unpredictable weather. From hurricanes and floods to winter storms, severe thunderstorms, extreme heat, and tornadoes, these events can disrupt daily life, damage property, and put people in danger. Being prepared is key to reducing the impact of these emergencies. By staying informed, making plans, and taking action, we can keep our community safe. This guide provides important information and practical tips to help you get ready for these natural hazards and keep Kent County strong and resilient.

Hurricanes & Flooding

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms can cause widespread devastation during and after they occur. Flooding from heavy rains, storm surge, and high winds can create significant damage and pose serious risks to life and property.

hurricane isabel

Preparedness Tips:

  • Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources like NOAA Weather Radio, the National Hurricane Center, and local news.
  • Make a Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that includes a communication strategy and an evacuation route. Be sure to communicate and share the plan with family and friends that live outside of the impacted area. Visit Ready.gov for additional information on making an emergency plan. 
  • Build an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.
  • Protect Your Home: Install storm shutters, reinforce garage doors, and ensure your roof is secure. Elevate electrical appliances and utilities in flood-prone areas.
  • Know Your Zone: Be aware of your flood zone and know evacuation routes and shelters. Visit PepareDE.org to find your evacuation zone.

During the Event:

  • Evacuate if Advised: Follow local authorities' instructions and evacuate immediately if ordered. Register for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) to receive updates directly to your phone.
  • Stay Indoors: Avoid windows and shelter in an interior room away from potential debris.
  • Avoid Floodwaters: Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.

After the Event:

  • Stay Safe: Avoid floodwaters, downed power lines, and structural damage.
  • Inspect Property: Check your home for damage and make necessary repairs to prevent further issues.
  • Seek Assistance: Contact the Kent County Emergency Operations Center for help and support.

Winter Weather

Winter storms can bring extreme cold, heavy snowfall, ice, and high winds, leading to hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and health risks.

Preparedness Tips:

  • Stay Informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and warnings from the National Weather Service.
  • Winterize Your Home: Insulate pipes, seal windows and doors, and maintain heating equipment and chimneys.
  • Prepare Your Vehicle: Keep your gas tank full, ensure your car is winter-ready, and carry an emergency kit including blankets, food, water, and a shovel.
  • Create an Emergency Kit: Include extra blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.

During the Event:

  • Stay Indoors: Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
  • Stay Warm: Dress in layers and keep dry. Use blankets and avoid using candles for light.
  • Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Use generators and gas-powered heaters safely outdoors.

After the Event:

  • Clear Snow Safely: Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow and use caution on icy surfaces.
  • Check on Neighbors: Ensure elderly or disabled neighbors are safe and have necessary supplies.
  • Inspect for Damage: Look for and repair any damage caused by the storm.

Severe Thunderstorms

Severe thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, hail, strong winds, lightning, and tornadoes, posing significant risks to safety and property.

Preparedness Tips:

  • Stay Informed: Monitor weather alerts and warnings through local news and weather apps.
  • Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure objects that can be blown away by strong winds.
  • Create a Safety Plan: Identify a safe shelter location within your home, such as a basement or interior room on the lowest floor.

During the Event:

  • Stay Indoors: Avoid using electrical appliances and stay away from windows.
  • Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not drive through or enter flooded areas.
  • Seek Shelter: If you are outdoors, find a sturdy building to take shelter in immediately.

After the Event:

  • Report Damage: Inform local authorities of any storm damage and hazards.
  • Avoid Downed Power Lines: Stay clear of fallen power lines and report them to the utility company.
  • Inspect Property: Check your home for damage and make necessary repairs.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can lead to serious health risks such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It is important to take measures to stay cool and hydrated during heatwaves.

Preparedness Tips:

  • Stay Informed: Keep track of heat advisories and warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
  • Stay Cool: Use air conditioning, fans, and visit cooling centers if necessary.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
  • Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

During the Event:

  • Check on Vulnerable Populations: Ensure elderly, children, and pets are safe and cool.
  • Wear Light Clothing: Dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes.
  • Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses: Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and seek medical attention if needed.

After the Event:

  • Continue Hydration: Keep drinking water even after temperatures cool down.
  • Cool Down Gradually: Avoid sudden changes in temperature to prevent shock to your system.

Tornadoes/Wind Events

Tornadoes and severe wind events can cause catastrophic damage and pose significant risks to life and property. It is crucial to have a plan and know how to respond.

Preparedness Tips:

  • Stay Informed: Monitor tornado watches and warnings from the National Weather Service.
  • Create a Safety Plan: Identify a safe location in your home, such as a basement or an interior room without windows on the lowest floor.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.

During the Event:

  • Seek Shelter Immediately: Move to your pre-identified safe location and protect your head and neck.
  • Stay Away from Windows: Use heavy furniture or a mattress for additional protection.
  • Listen for Updates: Use a battery-powered weather radio to stay informed.

After the Event:

  • Check for Injuries: Provide first aid and seek medical attention for serious injuries.
  • Report Damage: Inform local authorities of any damage and hazards.
  • Inspect Property: Assess your home for structural damage and take necessary precautions.

For additional information, contact the Kent County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 302-735-3465.

 

Back to top